One of the key events in the life of a CPA is selling one's practice. This one-time event is fraught with issues that could severely impact one's retirement. In the CPA Firm Mergers and Acquisitions course, we cover a multitude of issues related to selling one's practice, including how a valuation is formulated, which points deserve in-depth negotiation, how to transition clients to the successor, how to plan for a succession event, and how to increase the value of one's firm.
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Describe what is required for a successful merger transaction.
Explain the circumstances under which a CPA firm may need to sell out, acquire, or merge with another firm.
Specify the metrics that could be of interest when evaluating a merger or acquisition candidate.
Identify the reasons for structuring an acquisition to look like a merger.
Describe the reasons for the various due diligence activities.
Explain the circumstances under which the financial viability of a buyer can be harmed.
Specify the methods commonly used to value a firm for an internal sale.
Describe the best funding method to support an internal sale.
Describe the actions that can be taken to build a CPA firm's brand with clients.
Specify the most important criteria to use when searching for a successor.
Identify the circumstances under which succession planning can fail.
Identify the different forms of training and other forms of support that can be given to employees.
Describe the clauses in a partnership agreement that relate to the financial viability of the firm.
Major Topics
- Overview of CPA Firm Mergers and Acquisitions
Firm Valuations
- General Factors
Ways to Build Firm Valuation
Timing of the Merger or Acquisitions Event
Buyout Negotiation Points
Types of Mergers
Due Diligence
Succession Planning
Ensuring Successful Client Transitions
